The Difference Between Hardware and Software Explained
When it comes to the world of computers, two important terms that you will frequently hear are hardware and software. While they both play crucial roles in making your computer functional, they are significantly different. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the difference between hardware and software.
Hardware: What Is It?
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer that you can physically touch and see. This includes components such as the computer monitor, keyboard, mouse, CPU, memory drive, motherboard, and other peripherals. Hardware components are tangible, and they are responsible for the functioning of the computer.
For instance, the motherboard of the computer allows different hardware components such as the CPU, RAM, and graphics card to communicate with each other. The hard drive is where all your files are saved, and the display provides you with a visual output to interact with the computer.
Software: What Is It?
Software refers to computer programs that are used to perform specific functions. Unlike hardware components, software is intangible and cannot be physically touched. Though software has no physical form, it is responsible for directing the hardware components on what to do.
There are many examples of software, including operating systems such as Windows and macOS, productivity tools like Microsoft Word and Excel, video games, and web browsers like Google Chrome and Firefox.
While hardware is responsible for the physical operations of a computer, software is responsible for the logical and computational aspects.
The Differences Between Hardware and Software Example
The best example that illustrates the difference between hardware and software is a word processor. Assume you use Microsoft Word, which is a piece of software, to type a document. The software Microsoft Word operates on your computer’s operating system (hardware) to perform the task requested. It sends instructions to the hardware components such as the keyboard to capture your typing, the CPU to process your commands, and the hard drive to save the document.
In conclusion, the difference between hardware and software is significant. Whereas hardware is the physical part of a computer, software is the set of digital instructions that control hardware operation. They work in tandem to ensure the functioning of a computer similarly to the way our muscles and brains work together to make our body functional.
Table difference between hardware and software with examples
Hardware vs Software
| Hardware | Software |
|---|---|
| Physical components of a computer | Programs and data used by a computer |
| Examples: CPU, Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, Printer | Examples: Operating System, Microsoft Office, Photoshop |
| Can be touched and seen | Cannot be touched and seen |
| Non-volatile memory is used for data storage | Volatility or non-volatility is dependent on the type of software |
| Wears out over time | Does not wear out |